taking range game to the course?

[mrrouter]

How do you consistently take your range game to the course? On the range I have plenty of distance and hit a high draw. On the course I chunk it, top it and just when I do not need it my old friend the slice that goes left, left and even further left ( yes I am a lefty). Obviously I would like to play as i do on the range but how???

[GregJWillis]

Re: taking range game to the course?

Make sure you practice on grass when possible.

[golfonenemesis]

Re: taking range game to the course?

1. after you warm up, play a course in your mind. Hit driver, then, a short iron to a specific target. play a par 5, driver, 3 wood etc. always to a target. play a par 3 with a mid iron to a target.
2. when on the course, try to relax and get that sensation of free wheeling you probably have on the range.
3. understand your inability to take the range game to the course is all mental; just understanding this, will relax you and allow you to be loose and free.
4. on the course, if you tense up, think hell its only a ball and its only one hole, why not just let it fly.

[TeachingPro]

Re: taking range game to the course?

I'd go along with my friend GregJWillis by being careful to practice on grass where ever possible. Hitting of range mats doesn't give a decent reflection of your ball striking.

Another thing to do is take the confidence of the range onto the course ... and visualise a shot on the course as if it was on the range. Vice versa - on the range visualise a shot as if it was a shot on the course.

Lastly, on the range apply the same preshot routine and rehersal swings as you do the course.

Practice & play should be the same as much as possible. That's key.

[Broadus]

Re: taking range game to the course?

Tension is an obvious variable. On the driving range, one doesn't have to worry about OB, trees, water, deep rough, etc. If one can become more infatuated with the target and less concerned about possible disasters, one can play more freely and hit shots like on the range.

And I can preach it better than practice it!

Bill

[RobotDoctor]

Re: taking range game to the course?

1. after you warm up, play a course in your mind. Hit driver, then, a short iron to a specific target. play a par 5, driver, 3 wood etc. always to a target. play a par 3 with a mid iron to a target.
2. when on the course, try to relax and get that sensation of free wheeling you probably have on the range.
3. understand your inability to take the range game to the course is all mental; just understanding this, will relax you and allow you to be loose and free.
4. on the course, if you tense up, think hell its only a ball and its only one hole, why not just let it fly.

Agree with items, especially #2. I have adopted the "Who really gives a damn" attitude and now accept my limitations. I do not attempt a shot that I know I cannot pull off. Mr. Ego has left the arena. Because of the lack of tension, insecurity, ego, I play better now (except for putting), playing less now, than I ever have. When players play within themselves the play better. It has taken me 20 years to realize this.